Trent Boult hat-trick fuels New Zealand’s win over Pakistan

Trent Boult ran through Pakistan’s top order as he became just the third New Zealand bowler to take an ODI hat-trick (AFP)

Abu Dhabi, November 8: Trent Boult became the third New Zealand bowler to claim a one-day international hat-trick as his side defeated Pakistan by 47 runs in the first match in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
Pace spearhead Boult reduced Pakistan to 8/3 in their chase of 267 after he dismissed Fakhar Zaman (one), Babar Azam (nought) and Mohammad Hafeez (nought) in the third over.
He finished with figures of 3/54 as Pakistan were bowled out for 219 in 47.2 overs.
“It’s nice to be back out there and get the win for the boys,” said Boult, who missed the 3-0 loss in the preceding Twenty20 series due to the birth of his child.
“The hat-trick ball I was just trying to make him play and to slide one onto the pads is a great feeling.”
Veteran batsman Ross Taylor top-scored with 80 while wicketkeeper Tom Latham struck 68 off 64 balls to lead New Zealand to 266-9 after they won the toss and batted at Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
In response Pakistan crumbled to 85-6, before Sarfraz Ahmed (64) and Imad Wasim (50) added 103 for the seventh wicket.
However, once Pakistan skipper Sarfraz dragged a Colin de Grandhomme delivery onto his stumps New Zealand were almost home and dry.
Grandhomme took 2 for 40 while Lockie Ferguson finished with 3 for 36. (AFP)